If you’re trying to shop locally in Seattle for the perfect gift, one of the best neighborhoods to check out is Capitol Hill. This youthful and lively neighborhood is full of carefully-curated thrift stores, vintage shops, and niche local businesses. We rounded up eight of our favorite Capitol Hill shops that you’ll want to visit this for your shopping needs.
If you finish this list and want more Seattle shopping recommendations, check out our other neighborhood guides: the best shops in Ballard for holiday gifts, the best Wallingford shops, the best Fremont shops, and the best Pioneer Square shops. Also be sure to see our guide to this month’s holiday markets in Seattle!
Here are the very best Capitol Hill shops for holiday gifts:
1. Casita International
This little gift store in Capitol Hill is packed full of local, fair trade, and handmade items. You can find handmade ornaments, baby onesies, unique jewelry, and more here.
2. Elliott Bay Book Co.
A Seattle icon since the ’70s, this independent bookstore stocks every kind of book you can think of, from the latest bestsellers to illustrated travel guides of fantasy worlds. They also sell notebooks and journals, cookbooks, vinyl, stickers, and more items that make great gifts.
3. Freeman
Freeman makes cozy and durable clothes by hand right here in Seattle. Treat your loved one to a quality wool sweater or a much-needed raincoat, or stuff their stocking with socks and candles.
4. Glasswing
Glasswing sells men’s and women’s wardrobe staples, fine jewelry, home decor, and plants. We recommend checking out their gift sets for the holidays; prices range from $42 to $200 for thoughtfully curated bundles.
5. Slow Dance
This recently-opened clothing store in Capitol Hill has a fantastic selection of new and vintage pieces. Who would say no to a vintage wool fisherman sweater or incense that smells like a moonlit forest?
6. Revival Shop
You’ll find unique locally-made and vintage treasures in every corner of this well-stocked little shop in Capitol Hill. You can gift someone a quirky planter or handmade coffee mug, create a self-care package with local bath and body products, or brighten someone’s home with stained glass art.
7. The Vajra
Shop for the mystic or spiritual person in your life at this Seattle shop that has been selling incense, crystals, tarot, jewelry, candles and more since 1989.
8. Throwbacks Northwest
You’ll win Secret Santa this year if you gift the sports enthusiast in your life something from this vintage sportswear shop. In addition to vintage sports jerseys, accessories, and merch, they also stock all kinds of vintage clothes such as graphic tees featuring your old favorite movies, bands, and more.